Ergonomics and Seating
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Ergonomics is “The Study of Efficiency of People in their Working Environment”. However Ergonomics only really gains its teeth when there is an understanding that by practising good Ergonomics it is possible to pull together a plethora of ideas and designs that will, “….optimise loyalty, productivity and thereby… profitability. |
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Seating is significantly important, ergonomically, because of the physical contact that individuals have directly with seating. Chairs can also have a significant psychological or emotional impact on employees. The choice of chair can also indicate status, the employer’s willingness to invest in the employee, in the employee’s welfare or the company’s image. |
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In a standing position the human spine adopts an ‘S’ shape curve, and may be divided into three main regions;
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The cervical curve (neck) has seven small vertebrae, which have good movement, but are not designed to transmit large amounts of weight or force. |
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The thoracic curve carries an intermediate amount of weight or force and is a relatively inflexible part of the spine. Its mobility is affected by the rib cage, to which it is attached. |
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The lumbar spine is built for strength and designed to absorb forces, transmit weight and is quite mobile in forward and back bending. |
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The S-shape of our spine enables it to maintain a stable equilibrium, whether walking, standing or sitting. The flexibility of the spinal column is achieved by the vertebral joints and the discs or cartilages which lie between the individual vertebrae. The lumbar region is of particular importance, where optimum support must be provided by the backrest so that the spinal column can maintain its natural S-shape regardless of seating posture. |
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In conclusion, if we can maintain the lazy ‘S’ curve which is present in the standing position, when sitting, the additional strain on the intervertebral discs caused by the act of sitting, will be limited. |
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